Icelandic Caramelized Potatoes

As a Finnish American, I feel like Nordic cuisine doesn't get enough love. These Icelandic caramelized potatoes are easy to make but unfamiliar enough to Americans to excite and intrigue them at a dinner party. To use the Danish term, this recipe is totally hygge and a perfect winter comfort food.

Ingredients

2 lbs (1 kg) small potatoes (preferably baby potatoes)

1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar

3 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter

Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

Boil the Potatoes

Step 1: Wash the potatoes thoroughly. If using larger potatoes, peel them and cut into uniform sizes. For baby potatoes, you can leave the skins on.

Step 2: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes (get started on the caramel while these boil). Test with a fork—it should slide in easily.

Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. 

Prepare the Dry Caramel

Step 1: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, add the sugar in an even layer.

Step 2: Heat over medium heat without stirring. As the sugar starts to melt, gently swirl the pan to encourage even melting.

Step 3: Continue swirling (not stirring) until the sugar is fully melted and turns a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it, as dry caramel can turn quickly (like mine did lol. I took it a little too far, so don't make my mistake!).

Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the butter to the caramel. It will bubble vigorously, so stir gently until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Take it off the heat once the butter is fully incorporated.

Combine Potatoes and Caramel

Now that the caramel is done, peel the potatoes, totally removing any imperfections, and coat them in the caramel sauce.

Serve Immediately

Transfer the caramelized potatoes to a serving dish. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top, if desired, to balance the sweetness.

 

Comment if you've tried this recipe before, or if there are any other good Icelandic dishes I need to make!